Greg Johnson, a former NHL player who tragically ended his life five years ago, has been posthumously diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to repeated head injuries. The diagnosis, confirmed by his family on Wednesday, adds another name to the growing list of athletes whose lives and careers were affected by this debilitating brain disease.
On July 7, 2019, Greg Johnson died by suicide, a devastating event that shocked the hockey community and his loved ones. He took his own life with a gunshot, a tragic end that came 13 years after he played his final game in the NHL. Johnson’s career spanned 12 years, during which he earned respect and admiration for his skill and leadership on the ice.
A Career in the NHL
Greg Johnson’s journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted 33rd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1989 NHL Draft. Despite being drafted by the Flyers, he never played for the team. Instead, his NHL debut came after he was traded to the Detroit Red Wings in 1993. Johnson spent the first three and a half seasons of his career with the Red Wings, showcasing his abilities as a solid two-way player.
Johnson’s career also included stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Chicago Blackhawks. However, it was with the Nashville Predators that he found his true home. Johnson spent the last seven years of his career with the Predators, where he became a beloved figure and served as team captain. His leadership and dedication to the sport made him a role model for many young players.
The Diagnosis of CTE
Following his death, Greg Johnson’s brain was examined by Dr. Ann McKee from Boston University’s CTE Center, one of the leading institutions studying chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The findings confirmed that Johnson had CTE, a progressive brain condition associated with repeated blows to the head and concussions. CTE has been linked to a range of symptoms, including memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, aggression, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
The diagnosis of CTE in Greg Johnson adds to the growing awareness of the impact of repeated head injuries in contact sports like hockey. It underscores the urgent need for more research and better protective measures for athletes at all levels.
The Impact on His Family and the Hockey Community
The news of Greg Johnson’s CTE diagnosis has been a poignant reminder of the long-term consequences of head injuries. His brother, Ryan Johnson, who spent 15 years in the NHL and is now the associate general manager of the Vancouver Canucks, has been particularly vocal about the need for increased support and awareness for players dealing with the aftereffects of concussions and head trauma.
For Greg Johnson’s family, the diagnosis provides some clarity about the struggles he faced in his final years. It also highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and providing resources for those who may be suffering in silence.
Raising Awareness and Preventing Tragedies
The tragic death of Greg Johnson and his subsequent diagnosis of CTE have fueled ongoing discussions about the safety of contact sports and the need for comprehensive mental health support for athletes. The NHL, along with other sports leagues, has faced increasing pressure to implement stricter protocols for concussion management and to provide better long-term care for former players.
In recent years, there have been significant advancements in understanding the risks associated with repeated head injuries. Sports organizations are now more vigilant about concussion protocols, and there is a greater emphasis on player safety. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that athletes receive the support they need both during and after their careers.
Resources and Support
For those who are struggling with mental health issues or contemplating suicide, there are resources available to provide support and assistance. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK. These services offer confidential help and are available 24/7 to provide support to individuals in crisis.
Greg Johnson’s death by suicide and his diagnosis of CTE have left an indelible mark on the hockey community and beyond. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and the long-term impact of head injuries in sports. As the conversation around CTE continues to evolve, it is crucial that we prioritize the health and well-being of athletes and provide the necessary support to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The legacy of Greg Johnson, both as a talented NHL player and as a person who faced immense challenges, will continue to inspire efforts to make sports safer and to ensure that athletes receive the care and support they need. His life and untimely death underscore the need for compassion, awareness, and action in addressing the complex issues surrounding mental health and brain injuries in the world of sports.
